Troubleshooting Tilt Cylinder Drifting on a Case 1845C Skid Steer

[MikePhua]

When you’ve just rebuilt your tilt cylinders on a Case 1845C skid steer and notice that the bucket is drifting down, it can be frustrating and concerning. Hydraulic issues like this often stem from several potential causes, from air in the system to improper adjustments. Fortunately, understanding how these systems work can help you identify the root cause and fix the problem efficiently.
The Case 1845C Hydraulic System Overview
The Case 1845C skid steer is known for its versatility and rugged design. It uses a hydraulic system to control the lift arms, tilt cylinders, and other auxiliary functions like bucket movement. The tilt cylinders are crucial for controlling the angle of the bucket, which is essential when digging, lifting, or carrying loads.
The hydraulic system is powered by a hydraulic pump, which sends pressurized fluid through various lines to the cylinders. The fluid then moves the pistons inside the cylinders, pushing and pulling to move the bucket, arms, and other components. If there’s an issue with this system, such as the bucket drifting down after a cylinder rebuild, it’s usually related to a hydraulic leak, air in the system, or an improper adjustment.
Common Causes of Bucket Drifting After Cylinder Rebuilds

1. Air in the Hydraulic System
   One of the most common reasons for a bucket to drift down after a hydraulic rebuild is air trapped in the system. During the cylinder rebuild, air may have been introduced into the hydraulic lines, causing erratic movement or slow action in the cylinders.
   • Symptoms: Inconsistent or jerky bucket movement, drifting downwards after the tilt function is released.
     
   • Solution: To resolve this, you'll need to bleed the hydraulic system to release the trapped air. This can be done by running the system through full cycles while keeping an eye on the fluid level. You may also need to inspect the hydraulic fluid reservoir to ensure it is properly filled, as low fluid levels can exacerbate air buildup.
     
2. Worn or Faulty Seals in the Tilt Cylinders
   If the seals inside the tilt cylinders weren’t properly replaced or are faulty, hydraulic fluid may leak past them, leading to a slow drift in the bucket. Even minor wear or damage to the seals can cause fluid to bypass the piston, reducing the holding force and allowing the bucket to drop.
   • Symptoms: Gradual lowering of the bucket when the tilt function is not engaged, visible fluid leakage from the cylinders.
     
   • Solution: If the seals were not replaced properly during the rebuild, or if they have since degraded, you may need to remove the tilt cylinders and replace the seals again. Be sure to inspect the cylinder rods and piston surfaces for any damage that could affect the new seals.
     
3. Hydraulic Fluid Contamination
   Contaminated hydraulic fluid is another issue that could be affecting your tilt cylinders. If debris or contaminants entered the system during the rebuild, it could cause the seals to fail prematurely or create air pockets within the lines, leading to erratic hydraulic behavior.
   • Symptoms: Dirty or milky hydraulic fluid, rough operation of the cylinders.
     
   • Solution: Flush the hydraulic system thoroughly and replace the fluid with clean, high-quality hydraulic oil. It's also important to replace the hydraulic filter to prevent further contamination.
     
4. Incorrect Cylinder Adjustment
   After rebuilding the tilt cylinders, improper adjustments could be a cause of the bucket drifting. If the hydraulic pressure settings or the tilt cylinder linkage isn’t correctly adjusted, it can lead to the bucket slowly lowering even when you’re not applying pressure to the control lever.
   • Symptoms: The bucket drifts down only after the tilt lever is released, and the tilt system struggles to maintain pressure.
     
   • Solution: Recheck the pressure settings on your hydraulic system, as well as the linkage and tilt cylinder adjustments. Refer to the Case 1845C manual for specific instructions on how to adjust the tilt cylinders and hydraulic pressure to ensure proper performance.
     
5. Hydraulic Pump or Valve Issues
   If the hydraulic pump or control valve isn’t functioning correctly, it could lead to insufficient pressure being delivered to the tilt cylinders, causing them to fail in holding the load. This might be a more serious issue and could require professional attention.
   • Symptoms: Uneven hydraulic pressure, delayed response from the tilt cylinders, or a complete inability to hold the bucket in place.
     
   • Solution: Inspect the hydraulic pump for any signs of failure or reduced output pressure. It’s also important to check the control valve for leaks or malfunctions. If either of these components is faulty, they may need to be repaired or replaced.
     

How to Prevent Future Drifting Issues

1. Regular Maintenance of Hydraulic Components
   One of the best ways to prevent future issues with the tilt cylinders or hydraulic system is to maintain the system regularly. Regularly check the hydraulic fluid levels, inspect the seals, and clean or replace filters as necessary.
   
2. Proper Rebuild and Assembly Procedures
   During the rebuild process, make sure all parts, including seals, o-rings, and pistons, are in good condition and properly installed. Following the manufacturer’s guidelines for assembly is critical to ensure that the cylinders function as intended.
   
3. Use Quality Hydraulic Fluid
   Always use the recommended type of hydraulic fluid for your equipment, and ensure the fluid is clean and free from contaminants. High-quality fluid ensures smooth operation and minimizes the risk of damage to seals and internal components.
   
4. Address Leaks Immediately
   Leaks in any part of the hydraulic system, including the tilt cylinders, should be addressed immediately. Leaking fluid can result in loss of pressure, which affects the performance of the entire hydraulic system.
   

Conclusion: Ensuring Proper Tilt Cylinder Function on the Case 1845C
Having your bucket drift down after a tilt cylinder rebuild is a sign that something in the hydraulic system isn’t working as it should. By thoroughly troubleshooting common issues like air in the system, faulty seals, or incorrect adjustments, you can get your Case 1845C skid steer back to peak performance.
Remember, issues like these are not uncommon in the world of heavy equipment. Regular maintenance, correct rebuilding practices, and quick identification of potential problems can save you time and money in the long run. Whether you're working in construction, landscaping, or farming, understanding the hydraulic systems of your equipment and addressing issues promptly will help keep your machine running efficiently.
Key Takeaways:

• Bucket drifting after a tilt cylinder rebuild can be caused by air in the system, worn seals, hydraulic fluid contamination, or incorrect adjustments.
  
• Always maintain your hydraulic system with proper fluid levels, clean components, and correct cylinder adjustments.
  
• Regular inspection and maintenance can help prevent more significant issues and ensure smooth operation.
  

With these insights and preventive measures, you can avoid downtime and ensure that your Case 1845C skid steer continues to perform at its best.